Time for level playing field
I read with interest the letters from the taxi trade arguing against more wheelchair accessible vehicles in Dundee.
These letters — the latest from Alex and Auld Cabby — usually claim to be about the needs of passengers or some other matter demonstrating the selflessness of the authors.
But, in reality, it’s all about being able to run their cheap and easy saloon cars rather than the more expensive and difficult option of a WAV.
Indeed, the difference from the drivers’ perspective is such that several Scottish taxi drivers have gone to court for the right to run a saloon rather than a WAV, and no one should be fooled by the apparent concern for passengers.
For example, when there were 600 or more saloon taxis in Dundee, how many operators were willing to run a WAV when the disabled couldn’t get one?
Approximately none, which is why the council had to provide a subsidy for the handful willing to do so.
By the same token, Alex claims introducing an all-WAV policy would mean “hundreds” of teenage London-style taxis polluting Dundee, but I don’t see many such vehicles among the present WAV fleet.
In any case, that all comes down to the rules specified by the council.
Instead of having the several different rule books currently in existence — and the resentment that generates — perhaps it’s time for a level playing field. — Equality For Cabbies
Don’t blame the council
It’s about time we asked all the licensed taxi offices in Dundee why they don’t self regulate the number of taxis/private cars they allow to run.
Don’t blame the council for the mess you say you are in. Also, if they are not making any money, then why have two drivers per car?
In my opinion, sorting this out would be easy with two steps:
1. Taxi office to limit number of taxis/private hire from their offices.
2. One taxi/private hire car, one driver. — Cap in Hand.
http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/outpu ... tters.shtm